The average annual cost of owning a Maltese in the US ranges from $1,265 to $2,508 per year ($105–$209/month). This includes food, routine vet care, pet insurance, grooming, and supplies. Actual costs depend on your Dog’s age, weight, diet, activity level, and location.
Annual Cost Breakdown for Malteses
Here’s how the average Maltese owner’s annual budget breaks down across five key categories. Malteses are a small Dog breed with a long-haired coat.
| Category | Annual Range | Monthly Range | % of Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🍖 Food | $396–$660 | $33–$55 | 28% |
| Vet Care | $220–$550 | $18–$45 | 20% |
| Insurance | $264–$528 | $22–$44 | 21% |
| Grooming | $220–$440 | $18–$36 | 17% |
| Supplies | $150–$300 | $12–$25 | 12% |
| Total | $1,265–$2,508 | $105–$209 | 100% |
Food
Food is typically the largest recurring expense for Malteses. Expect to spend $396–$660 per year on quality Dog food. Malteses with food sensitivities may need specialized diets, which can add $0–$100 per year. Larger Malteses eat more and cost more to feed.
Veterinary Care
Routine veterinary care for Malteses costs $220–$550 per year. This covers annual check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative treatments. Malteses are prone to dental issues, which may require professional cleanings and at-home dental care to prevent more serious health problems. Unexpected emergencies can add thousands in a single visit.
Pet Insurance
Pet insurance for a Maltese costs $264–$528 per year. Given the breed’s predisposition to dental & skin issues, insurance is worth considering. An emergency visit can cost $2,000 to $5,000 — far more than a year’s premiums.
Grooming
Malteses have a gorgeous long-haired coat that needs regular brushing 2-3 times per week and occasional professional grooming. Annual grooming costs: $220–$440. Regular grooming prevents matting and hairballs.
Supplies
Annual supplies — litter box, scratching post, bed, bowls, toys — run $150–$300. Initial setup in the first year costs more due to one-time purchases.
Why Malteses Cost Less Than Average
Malteses cost less than the average dog primarily because of their small size and breed-specific health considerations. Malteses are prone to dental issues, which may require professional cleanings and at-home dental care to prevent more serious health problems. Additionally, malteses have long-haired coats, which affects annual grooming costs.
How to Save on Maltese Ownership
- Preventative care is cheaper than emergency care. Regular vet visits catch problems early. Budget for annual check-ups and stay up-to-date on vaccinations.
- Compare pet insurance plans. Get quotes from at least three providers. Accident-only plans start around $264/year.
- Buy food and litter in bulk. Subscribe to auto-ship for discounts. Dog food and litter are significantly cheaper per unit in larger quantities.
- Use preventative dental care. Dental disease is common in dogs and can lead to expensive health issues. At-home dental treats and regular check-ups save money long-term.
- Choose high-quality food. Better nutrition reduces vet visits from urinary issues, obesity, and allergies.
First-Year vs. Annual Costs
Your first year with a Maltese will be more expensive. Expect to spend an extra $754 on:
- Initial vet visit, vaccinations, and microchipping
- Spay/neuter surgery
- Litter box, bed, bowls, scratching post, toys
FAQ About Maltese Costs
How much does a Maltese cost per month?
Monthly costs for a Maltese range from $105 to $209. This includes food, vet care, insurance, grooming, and supplies. Dogs and seniors typically cost more than healthy adults.
Is a Maltese expensive to own compared to other cats?
Malteses are less expensive than average to own. A typical dog costs around $2,800 per year, while malteses at $1,265–$2,508/year cost less due to their small size, generally good health, and low-maintenance needs.
What health issues do Malteses have?
Malteses are prone to dental & skin issues. These conditions can require ongoing medication, special diets, or surgery — increasing annual veterinary costs beyond the routine care baseline.